The Bali Botanical Garden, or Eka Karya, is one of the most extensive spaces dedicated to tropical flora in Indonésie. Situated at 1,300 meters altitude in the mountainous region of Bedugul, roughly 56 km from Denpasar, it combines scientific research, conservation and public access in a cool atmosphere, far removed from the climate of the southern beaches.

Why visit the Bali Botanical Garden

Indonésie's first botanical garden, the site houses over 21,000 specimens belonging to 2,300 different species. Its begonia collection ranks among the world's most impressive, and from its pathways it offers clear views of Lake Bratan and the Ulun Danu temple nestled against Mount Tapak. It's also a refreshing haven after the heat of the lowlands, and a fine cultural and natural complement to a stay in Bedugul.

The Eka Karya Garden's history

The garden was established on 15 July 1959, shortly after Indonésie's independence, under the administration of LIPI (Indonésie Institute of Sciences). It was originally devoted to the study of conifer plants. The political crisis of 1965 abruptly halted its development, and it was not until the official reopening on 30 April 1975 that the project resumed.

Its name, Eka Karya, combines the words for "one" and "creation", reflecting its status as the country's first botanical garden. In 2001, expansion work increased its area from 1.29 km² to 1.58 km², strengthening its dual scientific and recreational purpose.

What to see and do on-site

The plant collections

The garden is divided into two main zones: one dedicated to cultivation and research, the other to leisure. The botanical section cultivates tropical plants originating from the mountainous regions of eastern Indonésie, including several rare species. You will find in particular:

• orchids and rhododendrons;
• one of the world's largest begonia displays;
• cacti, bamboos and carnivorous plants;
• a collection of roses and medicinal plants.

Five greenhouses, a nursery, a laboratory, a herbarium and a botanical library support the research and conservation programmes carried out on-site.

The Tree Top Adventure Park

The recreational section is dominated by the Tree Top Adventure Park, which offers five suspended courses among the trees: climbing nets, swings, rope bridges and the "Flying Fox" zipline soaring above 160 meters. The park suits families and visitors seeking thrills alike.

Birdlife

The garden is also home to 79 species of Asian and Australasian birds, observable throughout your stroll.

Practical information

The site is generally open daily during daylight hours. Entry remains moderately priced, with a small additional fee for parking. Allow 2 to 4 hours for your visit if you combine the botanical collections and adventure courses. Bring sturdy walking shoes, a light jacket (the altitude makes the air noticeably cooler) and water.

When to go

At 1,300 meters altitude, Bedugul enjoys a milder and more humid climate than southern Bali. The dry season, from April to October, offers the best visiting conditions, with clear mornings that allow you to enjoy views over Lake Bratan. During the rainy season, showers are frequent in late afternoon: favour early morning visits.

How to get there

The garden is located roughly one hour's drive north of Denpasar and 1.5 hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Several options are available:

• taxi or car with driver, the most comfortable option from southern Bali;
• scooter or car rental for independent travellers;
• buses connecting Denpasar to Bedugul, more economical but slower.

What to see nearby

The garden integrates easily into a day exploring the lakes region:

• the Ulun Danu Bratan temple, perched on the lake's shores;
• the Bedugul market, a colourful stop for highland fruits and vegetables;
• the town of Bedugul and its surroundings, a starting point for hikes to nearby volcanoes.

Frequently asked questions

Preparing your trip

The Bali Botanical Garden fits naturally into an itinerary between the rice paddies of central Indonésie and the lakes of the north. To include this stop in a tailor-made stay, consult our voyages en Indonésie.